Top GOP Senators Ask Pelura To Resign

The top two Republicans in the Maryland Senate are calling for the resignation of James Pelura, the state GOP chairman, in the latest sign of party turmoil.

"We do not feel that you have positioned the Party to take advantage of the opportunities that have presented themselves as we approach the 2010 election," says an e-mail sent this week to Pelura by Senate Minority Leader Allan H. Kittleman (R-Howard) and Senate Minority Whip Nancy Jacobs (R-Cecil).

Pelura came under fire earlier this week for dismissing the Maryland GOP's top staffer, Justin Ready, without first consulting with other party leaders. That brought a demand from other party officials that Pelura explain his action or step down himself. A meeting has been called for next weekend.

In an interview, Kittleman said that his concerns about Pelura, an Anne Arundel veterinarian, predate this week's episode.

"It's something that's been building up for quite awhile," Kittleman said.

Other lawmakers have criticized Pelura for inserting the party into policy matters, suggest he should stay more focused on building the number of GOP officeholders.